19. And I Thought Charity Galas Were Supposed to Be Fun

19. And I Thought Charity Galas Were Supposed to Be Fun

"There are rules for tonight," Jace spoke up, not dropping his intense gaze from mine. He placed a single calloused hand on the top of my thigh and the warmth of it caused chills to snake down my spine. My face, which was still warm from his previous words, brightened further.

With my teeth sinking into my bottom lip, I forced myself to level my gaze on him. He seemed to understand why I was narrowing my eyes at him so forcefully and he spoke up before I could.

"I know you don't like rules." He sighed, shaking his head with a small grin beginning to form on his lips. His smile was doing funny things to my stomach and I quickly looked away from it, my heart pounding. "Especially my rules, but these are important."

"They always are." I sighed, slumping slightly in my seat. "You can tell me them, but it doesn't necessarily mean I'll follow them." I mumbled out, flicking my eyes briefly to meet his. I arched a defiant brow at the man and he sighed at the challenging stare.

"I'm not surprised." Jace's lips shifted into a smirk, before he rolled his eyes.

I shuffled in my seat, gripping the leather beneath my palms tightly. Shooting a dark glance in his direction, I pursed my lips. "Well, get on with it. The faster I hear your ridiculous set of rules, then the faster I can deny any of them."

A flash of amusement lit his eyes before he carefully masked it, barely able to contain the upward curl of his lips. "Savannah, this is a serious."

"Yes, sir." I quickly saluted the man seated by me, rolling my shoulders back.

"Kitten," He sighed, pressing the pads of his fingers to his temples. He cleared his throat, pressing his lips together in a thin line. "You need to listen."

I didn't speak, staring at him silently as I waited for him to continue. The playful expression that had been present on his face seemed to diminish with the sigh that he released. His large hand squeezed my knee tightly, as his eyes watched me carefully. "I don't want to scare you, but there are going to be a lot of bad men here."

I barely contained the shiver that wanted to run through my body. My wide eyes were glued to his as my mouth fell open. I hadn't been prepared for that. "Huh?"

"It's okay." Any amusement that had previously lingered was had been replaced with worry as he studied me. He ran a hand roughly through his hair. "I won't let anything happen to you. But, that's why the first rule is you have to stay by my side the whole night. I'll have specific men watching just you, but you'll be the safest where I can easily reach you."

I gulped, my teeth sinking into my lip briefly. "That doesn't make me feel any better."

"I know," He grimly replied, one of his hands reaching up to drag a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "At times I feel sorry for dragging you into this mess. But, then there are times where I don't."

I don't think I could have spoken in that moment, so I kept my lips slammed shut, my gaze straying to the floor of the vehicle.

Jace chuckled lowly into my ear, the sound sexy and terrifying all at once. "And I think you feel the same way."

He leaned back slightly and I continued to sit rigidly, his words ringing through my ears.

"If we do manage to get separated, don't trust anybody." Jace's stormy eyes narrowed slightly. "Anyone can be a threat. Don't listen, follow, or allow anyone to deceive you."

Swallowing thickly and seeing me nod once, he continued. "If something does happen and we're together, listen to me." His hand moved to grip my chip, gently pulling my face up so his gaze was boring into mine. "I'm serious. If something happens, which it very well can, don't be stubborn and don't be stupid. Listen to me and I'll protect you."

I swallowed thickly, feeling my knees weaken. The intensity of his stare was enough to make my head suddenly feel light and I found it difficult to drag my eyes away from his. I forced a nod, wishing he would allow me to drag myself away a couple inches from his demanding form.

Jace's stare ran over my face. "Don't answer anyone's questions - actually, don't talk at all.  I'll do the talking, okay?"

"Excuse me?" I protested lowly, dropping my gaze from his stony one. "That's ridiculous."

"People dig for information." His icy eyes darkened a shade. "People can use information for blackmail and for attacks. You can easily slip up and cause trouble. You don't want that, do you, Kitten?"

"No," I whispered, feeling the blood drain from my face. I wrapped my arms around my torso, not liking the ideas he had just planted in my head.

Jace sighed, his face moulding into something akin to frustration as he squeezed the bridge of his nose between the tips of his rough fingertips. "You can talk to Brooke, Ashley, Cameron, and Riley. Just be careful what you say." He stressed, shutting his eyes. "Brooke has the same rules. As for Ashley, she knows what she's doing."

I nodded slowly, resisting the urge to frown. I cleared my throat, glancing down as I smoothed my hands over my dress, "What happens after the Gala?"

"Immediately after we leave the Gala, we're heading towards the airport. I'm having the maids at the penthouse pack all your things and Callum will bring it to the jet. You can sleep on the plane."

"Okay," I mumbled, wincing slightly as the awkward silence filled the vehicle once more.

"We're here." Jace murmured, sliding his hand down my arm until he secured his large hand with mine. "Don't worry, Doll. I'll keep you safe."

I barely had time to nod and prepare myself for what was about to come, before the limo was slowing down.

The sprawling estate that the charity event was being held at was gigantic. The mansion was on property that spread for acres and acres, most of which was gardens and well-maintained land. I watched with wide eyes as we pulled past the structure, my eyes flickering to the line of limos people were exiting from, to the rows and rows of photographers snapping pictures of those who exited the vehicles.

"Why are there all those photographers?" I panicked, my eyes flickering past the rows of flashing cameras, suddenly overwhelmed with the intensity of everything.

Jace chuckled, rolling his eyes. "We're not getting out of the limo here, so calm down. They wouldn't recognize me anyways. The only people who can are the ones inside and they understand not to spread rumors about my reputation." A glimmer of an unknown emotion had entered his eyes and I resisted the urge to gulp loudly. "There are many well-known people here tonight though, hence why it's highly documented."

"What kinds of people are coming tonight?" My eyes moved past the clumps of cameras to the people walking the short carpet to the door.

The limo turned around the house, blocking the scene from my sight.

Jace lifted his shoulders before he allowed them to drop. "People who know about the other side of my business, but also people who don't. People with wealth and power attend these events, Savannah. You need to be aware that there are a lot of dangerous people here tonight."

"People who want to hurt you?" I questioned quietly, my eyes dropping to our connected hands.

"Yes," Jace snorted, a short and bitter chuckle exiting his lips. "There are many who want to kill me because of the power I hold. They also know better than to try that at an event like this. It's highly publicized and I have a massive amount of security monitoring the building. I have security men in disguise scattered at every table and I have men monitoring who enters and exits the building."

"How don't the press know you?" Not able to understand, I pressed my free hand to my forehead. "With such a large business and a famous family name, I can't understand how they don't."

"'There are no cameras allowed into the event. I lead a very private lifestyle. People also know not to cross me." Jace smirked, the corners of his lips twisting upwards in an unpleasant fashion. "I don't have the best reputation."

"That isn't a good thing." I pulled away from him slightly, not liking the reminder of his what he does. His grip tightened on my hand, locking it in place when I attempted to pull away.

"It is. People know not to try things with me." His lips pressed into a thin line as blackness swirled in his eyes. "It takes years to gain that kind of respect."

"Stop it," I murmured, blinking back tears at his words. "Stop. I don't want to talk about this anymore."

The drive to the back entrance of the building was in silence.

_______________________________________________

"Welcome, Mr.Kingston." A voice greeted, filled with nerves and fear.

I tilted my head to scrutinize the man who had spoken. It was clear that he was nervous as he held a door open for Jace and I. Jace barely acknowledged him and I was quick to mumble my thanks, shoving an elbow to Jace's ribs, which didn't seem to cause him any discomfort.

"What was that for?" He growled out, his voice gruff as he ushered me towards the ballroom the charity dinner was being held in.

"Be polite," I forcefully replied, shooting him a glare. He only rolled his eyes at my words.

I wasn't prepared for the amount of attention that was immediately drawn to Jace as he passed my the clumps of people walking past up. People immediately parted around him as we passed and they looked at him with expressions filled with awe to hesitancy. Most nodded his way in greeting, though he didn't bother acknowledging it.

"You get a lot of attention." I muttered under my breath, hoping that my cheeks wouldn't go up in flames.

"Many know of me, it's complicated." He shrugged, pressing his hand flat against my lower back. "Just ignore them."

The dramatic doors leading to the ballroom were rushed open as we approached them and we were ushered inside.

I was quickly distracted by the interior of the room. The first thing that caught my eye were the chandeliers. Large, crystal chandeliers hung from the ceilings, dozens of them centered over the tables in a magnificent display of beauty. The tables, large and round, had vases of white flowers centered on the white tablecloths that donned them. Candles were scattered decoratively across the tops of them, giving the room a romantic and calm glow. Dark floors contrasted greatly with the decorations. Long and flowing white curtains hung down from the wall of doors near the back of the room. A fancy bar was pushed towards the far side of the room, where people mingled at.

Jace seemed to notice my shock and he chuckled lowly into my ear. "Beautiful, isn't it?"

"Yes," I replied truthfully, letting him lead me past the rows of tables.

"Mr.Kingston? Your table is this way." A lady in a black gown politely nodded at the both us, as she approached. "As requested, the most private table. The other guests who are attending with you shall be shown and seated as well." She professionally informed us, gesturing towards a table in the back, on the opposite side of the room from the bar.

Jace nodded, and after receiving another elbow to the ribs, was quick to thank the lady as well.

He guided me to one of the chairs, pulling out the seat and helping me into it before he settled himself into the chair next to me, as I mumbled my thanks.

"Riley and Brooke should be here soon, as Ashley and Cameron." He informed me and I jerked my head up and down, a blush staining my cheeks as my gaze flickered to the empty seats surrounding us. This felt too much like a date and I pressed my clammy hands together underneath the tabletop.

"Why the private table?" I questioned curiously, my eyes meeting his gorgeous ones.

He pursed his lips. "It's safer. We're in a corner so we can see everything that's going on and any possible threats, plus I have men placed in the surrounding tables. Not as many people have view of us and we can easily exit if needed. Plus, our conversation isn't as likely to be heard."

"Oh," I felt stupid for asking such a question and I flushed slightly.

He chuckled, settling his hand on mine. "You're not adjusted to all of this. Ask all the questions you want."

Sinking my teeth into my lip, I nodded slowly.

Jace let out a loud groan, his hand reaching over to pull my bottom lip out from between my teeth. He ran a thumb over my bottom lip, before letting his hand fall.  "Don't do that."

I watched him in surprise, before my shock turned to confusion. "Why not?"

"You're tempting me." He growled underneath his breath, shoving a hand through his hair.

My eyes widened and I fruitlessly attempted to hold off the blush that wanted to spread across my cheeks.

"What is this event for?" I blurted out, running a hand over the top of my head.

"It's to raise money for sick children and research." Jace explained, his eyes flickering around the room. "My mother was big on charity and always took me to these things growing up."

I nodded, wishing that my heart wouldn't melt at the passionate expression positioned on his face.

To distract myself, I scanned the crowd of mingling people. Most of the women were in ostentatious dresses and I couldn't help but feel a little bit plain compared to some of them. Smoothing the skirt of my dress, I tilted my head towards Jace. "So, who are the bad people?"

"Huh?" He looked confused as he arched an eyebrow at me.

"Who are the bad guys you said would be here?" I scanned the room, noticing that no one especially stood out.

Jace rolled his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Why am I not surprised you're asking me that?"

I jabbed a finger at his bicep, inwardly sighing at the wonderful feel of it beneath my fingertip. "You said I could ask questions and it's a good question to ask. Shouldn't I know anyways?"

"No," He shook his head and I could see a flash of amusement linger in his eyes. "Because then you'll focus on them. I don't want you worried. Relax,"

"That's not fair." I complained, the corners of my lips folding into a frown. "How is that fair? I just want to know."

"Not happening, Kitten. Drop it."

Pouting, I grabbed a glass of champagne from a waiter who passed by. Jace watched me wearily as I took a sip. "I'm not sure if I should allow you to drink after your last incident with champagne." He noted, one side of his mouth quirking upwards.

"You can't 'allow' me to do anything." I muttered, placing the glass in front of me, my eyes still on his lips. "I can do what I choose."

"I'm a police officer."

"A fake one." I shot back.

"Are you jealous of my police-chief status?"

"You haven't gone into work in forever. Slacking on the job, Officer?"

"Oh, look! The children are bickering again!"

Jace shot an approaching Cameron a dry look, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms. "Why do I regret inviting you suddenly?"

"Because I steal Savannah's attention away from you every time? Savannah, you just look ravishing."

I barely was able to control my blush when Ashley slapped his arm. "Stop trying to start an argument."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Just sit down." Ashley sighed, dropping herself into one of the chairs. "My God, the car ride over here was a horror."

"Please," Cameron scoffed, seating himself next to her. "I've never had a ride like that in my life." He wiggled his eyebrows and Jace sent him a disgusted glare.

"In your dreams," Ashley rolled her eyes, snagging my glass and downing my drink in one go. "Thank you. I really needed that."

"I know what else you need." Cameron loudly spoke, his eyes dropping to the table. "These tables are huge. Think about all the possibilities, Babe. We could just slip under and go for round two and I doubt anyone would notice-"

Ashley slapped a hand over his mouth before he could finish what he was saying. "If you don't be quiet, I'll get you kicked out."

"You couldn't," Cameron rolled his eyes.

"You look like a pervert, so I have no doubt she could." I interrupted, widening my eyes at him innocently before smirking.

"What?" Cameron cried in mock-horror, turning to the blonde next to him. "Do I really?"

"Sorry, we're late." Riley spoke, interrupting the boy as he pulled Brooke's chair away from the table. "What did we miss?"

"We were just discussing the perverted look that Cameron always seems to have on his face." I spoke up, nodding at Brooke who grinned.

"I can see it." Brooke pursed her lips, tilting her head at Cameron's face.

"And I thought we were all friends." Cameron pouted, moving to stand up. "Maybe I should ditch this crowd and find people who actually appreciate me."

"The only people who would appreciate you are the hookers on the corner." Ashley snapped back, pressing the pads of her fingers against her temples. "Maybe you'll have some luck there."

"Someone's feisty tonight." He taunted the blonde, turning to me. "Wouldn't you agree, Savannah? Someone needs to buy this lady a drink. And I'm volunteering." He nudged her arm and she was quick to swat at the offending limb.

"I'll pass."

"You're missing out then."

"Cameron," Jace's voice held a warning, though I could even see the distant amusement he was hiding on his face.

"Sheesh, everyone's so serious. Look at this place! Let loose!" He clapped his hands together enthusiastically. "Brooke! You look like the type to let loose!"

"Should I be offended?" Brooke dryly question, arching a perfectly-plucked brow at the boy. "Because it sounds like I should be."

"And I thought you were the cool one." Cameron sniffed in her direction. "Savannah, where do you pick your friends?" Cameron smacked a hand to his forehead.

"I think someone's had a little bit too much to drink." Brooke muttered under her breath.

Riley chuckled, squeezing her side. "More like it's just his personality."

"Quite right, Buddy!" Cameron leaned over to tap Riley on the shoulder. "Unfortunately I'm completely sober. That'll change soon though. I saw this brunette chick on the way in and she was fine." He let out a low whistle under his breath.

"Ugh," My face molded into a disgusted expression.

"No worries, Savannah. You're my first choice. What do you say?" Cameron wiggled his brows at me.

"She says no." Jace snapped. "Go away."

"I second that!" Ashley raised her hand, looking excited at the prospect of that idea.

"Goodness." Cameron huffed, pushing away from the table. "People can be so negative."

Shooting me a playful glare, he turned on his heel and left towards the bar.

"Thank goodness he's gone." Ashley exhaled, clasping a hand to her forehead. "I was beginning to get a headache."

"We all were." Riley muttered, as a man appeared and began taking drink orders. "Boss, I meant to tell you, they're here."

An unrecognizable grin flashed across Jace's face, the look spreading a sick feeling through my gut. "Perfect."

"Layton and Trevor are tracking them at this current moment. Everything looks good to go."

"Perfect," Jace chuckled. "Keep me updated."

"Will do, Boss."

"What's going on? Who're they tracking?" I spoke up, my eyes flashing to Jace's, before I turned to Riley. Ashley avoided my gaze as she trailed her index finger around the rim of her champagne. "Jace?"

"Nothing you need to worry about." He smiled tightly. "Want another drink?" He offered, casting Riley a stony look.

"I'm fine." I gritted out, looking away from his gorgeous face.

"Mr. Kingston - good to see you." A male voice spoke up from the left our table. My eyes reluctantly flickered in the direction the voice had come from and I arched my eyebrow at the man.

"Tom!" Ashley squealed, launching herself out of her chair to wrap her long arms around his neck. "Good to see you!"

The man chuckled, returning her embrace.

"Tom," Jace nodded, turning to me. "Old investor and family friend." He muttered, explained to me and I jerked my head up and down.

"How are you?" Tom asked, once Ashley had released him.

"Business is booming." Jace chuckled, reaching over to place a single hand on my back. I jumped at the touch. "This is Savannah, my date for the night."

I stiffened at his words, but forced a smile onto my face as I stared up at the man.

"Hello," He greeted, his eyes moving back to Jace's. "How's the family?"

"My mother will surely want to hear from you." Jace rolled his eyes, chuckling. "Everyone's good."

"I'll give her a call." Tom laughed. Nodding at the both of us, he nodded towards the redhead behind him. "I have to get back to my date. Nice seeing you."

Jace nodded once more, leaning back in his chair.

"Was he more than just an investor? Did you work for you?" I inquired curiously, studying his face intensely.

Jace rolled his eyes. "I would tell you if he had."

"I'm going to go mingle." Ashley interrupted, winking at me, before sending a strict look in Jace's direction. "I'll see you both later. Don't get too rowdy."

Riley watched us silently, before nudging Brooke, who arched a brow at him. "Let's go get drinks from the bar, yes? We'll be back." Riley promised, a secretive smile glued to his lips. Brooke let out a giggle, looking mischievous as she sent me a smirk.

"Sounds good to me."

I was about to protest, though the two were gone before I could. Frowning at their retreating bodies, I stared down at the table, avoiding glancing at the man beside me. I could the tension beginning to rise between the both of us.

"Stop," He finally spat out and I glanced up, shocked.

"What-"

"Stop it." He repeated, exhaling sharply as he crossed his muscular arms. "I understand why you're annoyed with me, but some things you're better off knowing."

"You're wrong." I muttered, crossing my arms as well. "You keep so many things from me. After everything that's happened..."

"Some things you don't need to know. That'll never change. Now what do you want?" He shoved the menu in my direction, cocking his eyebrow at me.

"I'm not hungry." I childishly protested. "How long are we staying here?"

"A couple hours." He looked troubled as his eyes scanned the room. "Just needed to make an appearence and I wanted to see you in a dress." Jace winked, his eyes running over my figure.

I felt my body warm and I squirmed under his heated gaze. Not knowing what to say, I kept quiet.

"Did I make you nervous?" Jace guffawed, leaning closer to my face. His eyes scanned my features and he cocked an eyebrow at me.

"N-no." I stuttered out, leaning away from his perfect face. "That was just unnecessary to say." Clearing my throat, I scanned the crowd of people. "Don't you know anyone else here?"

"Of course," He answered smoothly, following my stare. "Though, they know better to approach me. Most fear me, so they don't."

"But, if they don't know what you do, how can they fear you?" I inquired, unable to understand that detail.

"Rumors," He rolled his eyes. "They know that if I wish to speak to them, then I will."

I scoffed under my breath. "That's a tad bit conceited, no?"

"It gets things done." Jace shrugged. "But, enough about me. Cameron was right about these tables..." He trailed off, wiggling his brows at me suggestively.

"Gross, Jace!" I swatted at his arm, frowning when it most likely did more damage to myself than him. "That's inappropriate. Someone could have heard you."

"So?" He chuckled at the expression on my face. "We're far enough away from them that they wouldn't."

The waiter approached, effectively ending our conversation.

"What can I get you both tonight?"

"We'll have the salmon." Jace didn't bother looking in my direction as he snapped the menu shut.

"Excuse me?" I uttered, placing my palms flat onto the table. "I don't like salmon. No thank you. I can order for myself."

The waiter, looking uncomfortable, darted glances between the two of us. "Uh-"

"You said you weren't hungry." Jace smirked, handing the menu's to the stiff waiter. The man looked nervous as he shuffled from one foot to the other.

"And I am now. I'll have the pasta." I sent Jace a smug look.

"What kind of sauce-" The waiter began, but was quickly cut off by Jace.

"She'll have Alfredo. That'll be all. Leave."

"What about the others?" He stuttered out anxiously, his eyes casting to the empty seats.

"They'll order later. Go."

The waiter fled without saying anything more and I cast Jace an irritated look. "Great, you scared the poor guy off. Was that really necessary?"

"Extremely so." Jace shrugged, before rolling his eyes at my angry expression.

"What's your problem-"

Though I wasn't able to finish asking my question.

I watched, unable to comprehend what was happening, as a man I didn't recognize bent low to speak into Jace's ear, before he straightened with a severe look in his eye. His gaze flickered over to my frozen form, before he took a step back away from the table, a flicker of familiarity resonating in the stranger's eyes.

Jace cursed, the sound shocking as it radiated over to me. My posture remained rigid and tensed as he slammed his fist onto the table, shaking the wood. "Already?" He spat at the man, who was quick to nod.

With wide eyes I realized that no one had looked over, most likely due to the Jace's infamous reputation. He exhaled, quickly pushing back his chair as he stood from the table, his movements graceful and threatening.

"What-"

He immediately took a step closer, lowering his face down to press against the side of my own as he interrupted my words. "There's an emergency." He muttered lowly into my ear, the urgency in his tone causing me to stiffen. "I need to go attend to something. Stay here."

"You promised you wouldn't leave me." I protested, my voice cracking as I spat the words at him. Panic was beginning to knot it my stomach and I could feel my throat tighten. "What happened? Take me with you."

"I can't do that, Cupcake." Jace pulled away, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. I could see the torment in his eyes as he straightened. "I'll find you once everything is sorted. Stay here and don't leave with anyone. I have Duke watching you." He warned, his eyes flashing dangerously."This is important

"This isn't fair." I turned away from him, picking up the glass of champagne from the table and taking a sip. "You promised."

"Savannah," He looked torn.

"Go do what you have to do." I waved him away, hoping that he wouldn't hear the nerves coloring my tone. My eyes flickered to the people surrounding the room. Sinking my teeth into my lip, I realized I had no idea as to who posed a threat and who didn't. I was vulnerable and completely exposed.

"Riley was able to send Brooke to the car with Callum without it making look suspicious. Cameron is with me. Ashley is... around. Be safe," He stressed, leaning down to press a kiss to the side of my neck.

I shut my eyes.

"I'll explain everything later. I'm sorry for breaking my promise. I'll make it up to you."

When he didn't receive a reply from me, he sighed heavily. "I'll be back. Remember what I said." And just like that, he was gone.

I exhaled sharply, my gaze drifting to the empty seats suddenly surrounding my frozen form. Not even a dozen seconds had passed before a stoic Duke was dropping into the seat that Jace had previously occupied. His face gave away nothing.

"Good evening," He greeted politely, his face remaining emotionless as they scanned the room.

"Don't feed me that shit." I hissed, my teeth grinding together. I suddenly found it difficult to keep a somewhat neutral expression slapped onto my face. "This isn't a good evening. What the fuck is going on?"

"I don't know what you're talking about." Duke arched a thick brow at me, leaning back in his chair nonchalantly. "Everything is fine."

"I can't believe you." I muttered, resisting the urge to flip him off. "You know exactly what is happening and I demand that you tell me."

"Sorry, Savannah." To my shock, Duke's lips twisted into a small smile. "I can't."

I downed the rest of my drink, crossing my arms. "Can you at least let me know why I couldn't just leave?"

Duke pursed his lips, rolling his eyes, before he leaned in, close enough that it wasn't possible for anyone else to hear. "Jace has people watching him. I can't tell you anything, but just know that it wouldn't have been safe for him to try to get you out."

My face paled slightly as my shoulders dropped. I shut my eyes. "Of course."

"Everything's going to be okay." Duke sounded almost concerned at my sudden change. "You look like you could use another drink."

"That sounds like a good plan." I muttered, immediately standing up. "In fact, I'm going to go get one."

Duke was quick to look uneasy. "Savannah-"

"Relax," I held a hand out to keep him from rising. "The bar is right in your sight." I shoved my thumb in the direction of it. I needed a minute to collect myself, I could feel my anxiety beginning to claw up my throat. "I'll be right back."

"You have two minutes, Savannah. Make it quick." Duke didn't look happy.

I nodded, exhaling as I turned away. I was quick to navigate through the socializing people as I made my way towards the counter.

The hairs on the back of my neck stood up straight when I felt eyes watching me. A bad feeling swirled in my gut as I scanned the space around me, not seeing anyone unusual Duke was typing innocently into his phone and I swallowed around the lump in my throat, turning back.

I didn't feel any more relieved.

Reaching the bar, I sighed heavily as I rested against the fancy-looking counter top. The bartender put down the glass he had been polishing, sauntering my way. He looked amused as he paused in front of my stoic figure.

"You look like you could use a drink." He chuckled, planting the palms of his hands against the granite.

"Like you wouldn't believe." I mumbled, shaking my head. My eyes scanned the rows of bottles before I dropped my gaze back to his. "And the strongest you have, please."

"Coming right up," He smirked, turning to grab a shot glass from the counter behind him. He grabbed a bottle off the shelf.

"This'll do the trick." He grinned, sliding it towards me once the glass had been filled.

Picking the glass up, I wrinkled my nose at the sight of it, before shrugging and tossed it back. The bitter liquid immediately had my eyes watering,

Coughing loudly, I slammed the glass down. "Do I even want to know what that was?"  I questioned and the man smirked, shaking his head.

"Most likely not."

Nodding, I planted a palm on the bar. "Give me another."

His eyes widened, but he followed my command, reaching for another shot glass. "Damn. Your night must've been worse than I had originally thought."

"You don't want to know." I spoke honestly, though from the quirk of his lips, I could tell he only thought I was joking.

"Here you are." The glass was pushed once again in my direction and I was quick to swallow the contents of it. Nearly gagging on the taste, I shoved the glass away from me.

"Thank you, I needed that." I sighed, letting my eyes briefly shut for a moment.

"It's no problem. If you want another drink, you know where to find me." The bartender winked, messing with the knot in his tie.

The corners of my mouth turned up and I shook my head. "I probably should'nt." Waving my hand at him, I turned, my eyes immediately scanning the tables for where Duke had been seated. A bad feeling began to twist through my gut when he was nowhere to be seen.

"Looking for someone?" The smooth and clearly-masculine voice that had spoken immediately had chills twisting down my spine and I resisted the urge to shiver. Biting my lip, I whirled around, my eyes flashing up to meet the cool one's of the stranger.

Choking back a gasp, I realized exactly who it was standing before me. The resentful look that seemed to be etched onto his face was exactly how it was in the photo I had studied him in.

The knowledge that he was in relation to Ricardo Nixon had my stomach churning.

"Do I know you?" Deciding it was best to act like I didn't know the identity of the man before me, I forced myself to keep the expression on my face neutral. Amusement flashed through his eyes as he watched me fidget. He took a step forward and I had to force myself to remain rigid, my teeth sinking into my lip as he loomed over me.

"I think you know who I am."

Those words were enough for my fight-or-flight feelings to kick in and I had to force my feet to stay where they were. I tucked my hands, which had curled into two fists, behind my back. "No, I don't."

Where the hell was Duke? Or anyone for that matter?

"If that's how you want to play this, Savannah." The man smiled, his blindingly white smile making the anxiousness in my chest grow even more.

"What can I help you with?" I forced out. Keeping a polite tone with him was becoming more trying than I had originally assumed it would. My eyes skimmed the perimeter, my heartbeat increasing when I realized no familiar faces were in sight.

"They're not in here." The man snickered, seeming way-to entertained by this fact, as I turned my attention back to him. "Kingston left you here defenseless and all-alone. How do you feel about that?"

Refusing to answer, I wrapped my arms around my torso uncomfortably.

His eyes skimmed over my body, a sneer twisting his lips into an ugly smirk. "Well, the rumors are certainly true. I know exactly why Kingston decided to keep you after all."

My lips pulled back in disgust and I stepped away from him. Wishing I could flee, but knowing fully well the man would never allow me too, I studied him carefully.

"Ricardo is going to be so pleased to see you. He has big plans for you, Savannah." He snorted, moving closer. My eyes flickered desperately around, wishing that someone would notice how uncomfortable I was and would intervene, though no one was glancing our way.

"No one's going to help you. We're just going to slip out right from under their noses." A sick grin crossed his face. "Just like when they took Stella and Alice all those years ago."

"Why can't everyone just let go of the past and move on?" I whispered, my throat quickly growing thick.

His eyes narrowed into a sinister glare, the black look in his eyes making my stomach sharply turn. "Don't be fucking stupid. It's more than just what happened in the past."

"I'm not being stupid." I forced out, swallowing sharply. "This is ridiculous. People keep getting hurt and if everyone would just-"

Where did Duke go? Where were the guards?

"You shut the fuck up. You don't know what you're talking about." Shoving a finger in my direction, the ferocity in his expression seemed to increase. "You don't. After tonight you will though." His alarming leer only succeeded in making the lump in my throat grow.

"I don't understand-"

"Of course you don't. But you will." Cocking an eyebrow at my frozen form, his head tilted slightly. Crossing his thick arms, he straightened, towering over my form. "Listen to me - if you don't, I'll put a bullet through your brain, got it?"

Feeling my hands begin to shake, I pressed my clammy hands flat against my thighs. When I didn't answer, he took another threatening step closer. "Got it?"

With my eyes growing wide, I forced my head to jerk up and down once.  At my acceptance of his orders, he leaned back. "I mean it. You fuck up, I'll shoot you." Pursing his lips, he shot a glance around at the people surrounding us. "Walk with me."

I watched in horror as he reached out, latching a large palm onto my wrist before he forcefully looped his arm through mine. Brutally keeping my mouth slammed shut to resist from begging the passing people to help me, I numbly let him pull me along towards the doors that lined the back wall. I could see the darkness through them, submerging the garden in an opaque black. Resisting the urge to scream, I instead sent silent looks at the passing people, hoping that they would see the panic written on my face, though they passed without a second look in our direction.

With dread, I realized I was beginning to feel the drinks that I had so carelessly swallowed.

"Someone have a little too much to drink?" The man laughed lowly into my ear when I stumbled. My skin crawled at the feeling of his warm breath against the side of my throat. "I'm calling dibs on you when we get back to the house."

"House?" My voice sounded strangely weak and slurred and I watched with wide eyes as he yanked the doors to garden open and ushered me outside. I shot a frantic look back at the crowd of people and tables, realizing with a harsh reality that we were alone. "What do you mean?"

He chose to not answer my questions, instead pulling me farther away from the doors and closer to the shadows. We were completely alone, the only sound was my heels clacking noiselessly against the concrete slab beneath our feet.

"Where are you taking me?" I demanded, weakly pulling at my arm still locked in his. "Stop! Where are you taking me?"

"Shut the fuck up." He scowled, his hand squeezing my arm tightly. I winced, immediately dropping any resistance that I had been putting up. His grip around my wrist would surely leave a harsh bruise, a memory of this night I certainly didn't want to have. He stopped us, releasing my wrist, but whirling my body around till I faced him. I spun, with my head dizzy, cursing myself under my breath for being such a lightweight.

"Stupid, little, Savannah." He sighed, his fingers drawing pathways up my arm. They stopped at the edge of the bandage that covered my newly acquired scar. He laughed, the sound seemingly loud in the cool of the night and his fingers were quick to rip it off, exposing the marking to the world. "Remember this?" He traced the lines with his hand, his eyes narrowing into mine.

Faintly, in the small amount of light that resonated from the windows to where we stood, I could see the hideous scar. It was dark, contrasting greatly with the color of my skin. Bile rose in my throat at the sight of it and I jerked my chin away from the disgusting sight.

"Ah," He chuckled. "So you do. You know why we put this here?" He questioned, knowingly looking at me and at my blank look, he chuckled darkly . "It's a promise."

"A promise for what?" I squeezed my eyes shut, very much confused and very much wanting to disappear. "What?"

"It was more than just a warning. It was a promise for our return. Kingston was just too stupid to realize that fact." He snorted, shaking his head. "We were quick to realize that you were the key to what we needed. We needed Kingston to fall for you - to want you. That-" He jerked his chin to the scar. "That was a promise of our return. You were perfect for our plan. Your family wouldn't notice your absence," His thumb brushed a strand of hair away from my face. "You are beautiful," His finger trailed downwards, tracing my neck. "And you had already caught his eyes. We only needed time. And we gave you time." The corners of his mouth twisted upwards and I wished I could turn away. "Now it's time to put everything in action. This is the fun part, Savannah."

"I don't understand." I struggled, my chest was growing alarmingly tight and suddenly I was finding it difficult to breathe.

"I know you don't. Not yet at least." He shook his head, tracing the scar once more, before he locked his arm through mine. "But you will, all in due time but very, very, soon."

"I think you have it wrong." I spoke up, struggling not to vomit as he pulled us deeper into the garden. "Jace - he doesn't feel anything for me. He only lusts for me. That isn't enough for him to do anything rash." I hated how my voice was sounded so shaky.

"No, you have it wrong." He was laughing, the silent shake of his shoulders let me know that fact. "Jace most certainly feels something for you. That much is clear."

"You have no proof." I disagreed vehemently. "This isn't going to work. You may want to come up with another plan-"

"Shut up." He growled, placing a sweaty hand over my lips. I winced, my reflex to pull back immediately though he refused to let me. "Stop talking. I don't want to hear it. This will happen."

Releasing my face, he shoved me away. I didn't know whether it was my uncoordinated feet, the heels, or the force of the push but somehow I found myself laying on the ground, staring up at the monster of a man.

He watched my carefully as I sat up, attempting to pull the pieces of my once-beautiful, ripped dress to cover all necessary parts. "Sometimes I wonder how Kingston is so stupid." He laughed, letting his eyes slowly trail over my exposed skin. "He knew Ricardo's guys were going to be here tonight. He knew that and yet he still brought you here? So, I have a question for you now, Savannah. Don't you find that a bit odd?"

I stared up at him frustrated and confused and on the verge of tears. His words were confusing and sent of jolt of fear through my heart. Wearily, I stumbled onto my feet, resisting the urge to slap away the hand he offered me. "What do you mean?"

"Jace knows that Ricardo always has some of his men always attend this annual event. So why would he take you, when he knew we were clearly going to be here?" His eyes twinkled with mischief, though even I could see some of his confusion lingering in them. "Either he had a plan up his sleeve and didn't care to risk you or he's an oblivious idiot."

Swallowing hard at his implications, I shifted where I was standing.

"Does he have a plan, Savannah? Do you know anything? Don't lie to me." He flashed me the gun he had tucked behind his suit jacket and I bit back a gasp.

"I don't know anything." I insisted, staring numbly at the man.

"Hmm." I couldn't tell if he believed my words or not. He glanced away, his eyes flickering to his watch before back to me. "Should be about time now..." He muttered.

"About time for what?" I insisted, my eyes widening at the man. "Please! What's happening?"

He watched me carefully for a moment, before shrugging. "It wouldn't hurt to tell you, I suppose. Nothing can go wrong at this point." An evil grin flashed across his lips before he shook his head and turned to me. "Jace is going to take his pick. Stella or you."

"No." My voice was barely anything above a whisper, though from his smirk, it was clear he had heard. "How could you do that? No!"

"We're finally getting our revenge after all these years." He muttered coldly, the cruel twist of his lips sending my stomach plummeting.

"Revenge for what? This is ridiculous! Why can't all of this just end?" I shouted, tightly shutting my eyes and shaking my head. "You can't make him choose. That'll tear him apart."

"Exactly. You know who he'll choose. We all do. I'll get to take you back to the house and have my way with you." His eyes ran dirtily over my frame and I shot him a glare.

"No way in hell."

"Not your choice, Babe."

With those last words firing through my mind and adrenaline shooting through my body, I made a conscious choice. In moments like these, we all have choices, it's just whether we choose to acknowledge them or not. As I stared into his malevolent eyes, I made a choice that I would never be able to take back.

I pulled my foot back, before letting it sink between his legs.

And then, I made a run for it.

When one decides to make a decision like the one I had just direly made, it would most likely be best to have a well-thought plan. As I scrambled to kick off my heels and keep running, I came to a quick realization that I had no plan whatsoever.

The man was swearing loudly, his crude words bouncing off the trees and echoing back to me. "Get back here, Slut!"

Holding back the urge to scream for help, I bounded forward, my bare feet slapping against the dirt.

"I'm going to fucking kill you when I get you. You really made a fucking bad move."

I couldn't pinpoint exactly where he was and that realization had chills spiraling down my spine. With my heart pounding too fast and the lump growing quickly in my throat, I sprinted toward the direction where I believed the building to be. My breath came out in short, panicked, pants, and tears wet my cheeks.

If only I could get back to the event...

His footsteps pounding behind my own was a harsh realization that only made me pick up my speed as I skirted around bushes and trees. I let out a sob. "Someone help me! Jace! Please!"

I knew it was no use. We were totally alone.

Sobbing when the building came into view, I started for the doors. Help was so close.

Though I knew it was too late when a body came flying over mine, smashing my head into the grass as they tackled me.

"Got you." He breathed heavily into my ear, his hot breath against my skin only causing my panic to increase.

"Get off me!" I hissed wildly, gasping out a painful breath as he shifted more of his weight onto me.

"Are you going to think about running again?" He growled into my ear and I was quick to shake my head, choking back a cry,

Roughly gripping my shoulders, he yanked me up. "Come along now. Like I said, time for the fun part." Laughing cruelly in my ear, he gripping my arm tightly as he pushed me towards the side of the building, the opposite side from where Jace and I had entered.

"Where are we going?" I weakly questioned, blinking blindly into the night.

He didn't answer as we rounded the corner and I suddenly understood why.

Because standing in front of me was Ricardo Nixon.